Suspected Beef Consignment Cleared as Buffalo Meat in Jalna

Meat seized in Jalna, initially suspected to be beef, is confirmed as buffalo meat. The frozen 83,988 kg consignment, marked for export, was released after a lab in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar confirmed its identity. Three individuals were linked to the case, registered under Maharashtra Animal Preservation Act.

In Jalna, Maharashtra, a massive meat haul initially detained by authorities on suspicion of being beef has been identified as buffalo meat. This revelation followed a thorough examination by a laboratory in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.

The consignment, weighing 83,988 kilograms, was intercepted based on information from right-wing groups, sparking significant local and legal interest under the Maharashtra Animal Preservation Act. Three individuals connected to the incident are Varanasi residents, according to local police.

Authorities acted swiftly to process and verify the transport documents, facilitating the release of the shipment within a day of confirmation. The packaged meat featured Arabic markings, suggesting its intended export to Arab countries, which adds an international dimension to the case.

(With inputs from agencies.)